Alarm Systems

False alarms and frivolous 911 calls and pranks such as phony bomb threats are overwhelming the emergency response system nationwide. These incidents are more than an inconvenience - they monopolize the time and energy of emergency personnel, at the expense of real life-or-death emergencies.

In 2012, the police department received 369 alarm calls, and less than 1% of those resulted in actual crimes or medical situations. Every alarm call requires two responding officers and approximately 20 minutes of time.

Penalties

If the police department responds to more than two (2) false police or fire alarms within a calendar year, an administrative civil penalty will be imposed. The Ramsey city Council sets the amount of the penalty. Additional penalties will be imposed for each additional false alarm during that year.

False Alarms

Alarms activated by conditions such as snow, rain, mist, or fog are considered false alarms for the purposes of this section, but do not include alarms caused by severe climatic conditions such as tornadoes, thunderstorms, utility line mishaps, or other violent conditions of nature.

False alarms will also be excused if they are a result of an effort or order to upgrade, install, test or maintain an alarm system and if the Police or Fire Department is given adequate notice in advance of said upgrade, installation, testing and maintenance.

False Alarm Audits

If you are struggling with your home or business alarm system and have received notices of false alarms, please take the time to review the false alarm prevention handouts that we provide. We can also assist with a false alarm audit if needed. Please call 763-427-6812 for more information on this service.